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Quick Curried Lentils [Stove, Crockpot, IP]
5 from 75 votes

Quick Curried Lentils [Stove, Crockpot, IP]

This curried lentils recipe combines brown lentils with curry powder, tomatoes, carrots, and optional cinnamon for a creamy, richly spiced dish. The lentils are simmered until tender and creamy, absorbing the blend of spices and tomato flavors. Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges provide bright finishing touches. It’s a versatile recipe adaptable to stovetop, slow cooker, or pressure cooker methods.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings: 4 to 6
Calories: 271 kcal
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian, American

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup brown lentils uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • 1 diced tomatoes in their juices, 14-ounce) canned
  • 2 large carrot diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup cilantro chopped (optional
  • lemon garnish (optional, wedges

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a large pot with a lid, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they are translucent and fragrant. Then add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.
  2. Add the uncooked lentils to the pot and the curry powder. Mix well and cook for 20 seconds constantly mixing. Add the water, cinnamon (if using), diced tomatoes, carrots, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover with a lid and bring it to a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook undisturbed for 30 minutes. Uncover, and continue to cook until most of the liquid evaporates and the lentils get creamy.
  4. When ready, taste and adjust salt, pepper, and curry levels if needed. Then add the cilantro and mix well. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Cooking lentils with spices in oil before adding liquid enhances their flavor.
  • Adjust dish thickness by mashing some lentils or increasing broth amount.
  • Allow the lentils to rest after cooking to develop deeper flavor.
  • Season to your taste, adding more curry, salt, or pepper as desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories 271kcal (14%) Carbohydrates 46g (15%) Protein 15g (30%) Fat 5g (8%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g (6%) Monounsaturated Fat 3g (15%) Sodium 819mg (34%) Potassium 941mg (20%) Fiber 18g (72%) Sugar 9g (18%) Vitamin A 6800IU (136%) Vitamin C 24mg (27%) Calcium 98mg (10%) Iron 6mg (33%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 to 6

Amount Per Serving

Calories 271

% Daily Value*

Calories 271kcal 14%
Carbohydrates 46g 15%
Protein 15g 30%
Fat 5g 8%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 3g 15%
Sodium 819mg 34%
Potassium 941mg 20%
Fiber 18g 72%
Sugar 9g 18%
Vitamin A 6800IU 136%
Vitamin C 24mg 27%
Calcium 98mg 10%
Iron 6mg 33%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.